There is something timeless about San Marino. Perched high atop Mount Titano and surrounded entirely by Italy, this tiny microstate feels like a living medieval fairy tale. During my recent visit, I couldn’t resist picking up a few postcards that perfectly capture the spirit of the “Serenissima Repubblica”.

Here are the five postcards I added to my collection:

1. The Guaita Tower at Golden Hour

The first card is a stunning photograph of the Prima Torre (Guaita). It’s the oldest of the three iconic towers and dates back to the 11th century. I love this shot because the warm streetlamps and the setting sun against the stone walls make the fortress look incredibly welcoming, despite its rugged cliffside perch.

2. The Statue of Liberty (Statua della Libertà)

No, not the one in New York! San Marino has its own Statue of Liberty located in the Piazza della Libertà. This white Carrara marble statue is a symbol of the country’s fierce independence and democratic roots. Seeing it against that crisp blue sky on the postcard reminds me of how clear the air feels at 700 metres above sea level.

3. Modern Art: “Prima Torre” by Sergio Ruggeri

I wanted something a bit different from a standard photo, and this illustration by Sergio Ruggeri hit the mark. It’s a minimalist, almost surrealist take on the Guaita tower. The soft, rounded shapes and the floating red-and-white ball give it a playful, modern energy that contrasts beautifully with the ancient subject matter.

4. The Historic San Marino–Rimini Railway

This card features another Ruggeri illustration, this time depicting the historic Ferrovia Elettrica. This train once connected San Marino to the Italian coastal city of Rimini before it was damaged during WWII. The artwork shows the blue-and-white carriage crossing a bright orange viaduct—a lovely piece of local nostalgia.

5. The National Flag (Libertas)

Finally, I had to get a simple, classic shot of the San Marinese flag. The white and blue horizontal bands represent peace and liberty, featuring the national coat of arms in the centre. Seeing it fluttering against the sky is a constant sight as you wander the narrow, winding streets of the capital.

A Special Souvenir

What makes these cards even more special is the official Poste San Marino cancellation mark. I managed to get one stamped on 29/11/2025 with a special “Natale delle Meraviglie” (Christmas of Wonders) design. It’s a small detail, but for a collector, it’s the perfect finishing touch.

Which one is your favourite? The classic photography or the stylised illustrations? Let me know in the comments!